The agriculture program at Bridgeport High School has really taken root and the community can reap some of the benefits.

 

Just in time for planting season and Mother’s Day gift giving, Bridgeport High School Future Farmers of America is holding its second annual spring plant sale the weekend of May 1-2.

 

Straight out of the greenhouse – on site at BHS – will be a variety of vegetables and flowers. Tomato plants include Beef Steak, Early Girl, Mr. Stripey, Rutger, Roma and Cherry. Dragon Cayenne, Hot Banana, Sweet Banana and Bell peppers are also available, as are melons and squash.

 

Those interested in flowers will find Petunias, Marigolds, Impatiens, Purple Heart, Amaranths, Sunflowers, and Zinnias, which can be purchased as starter plants or in hanging baskets.

 

“We have twice as many plants as last year,” said Emily Parent, agriculture teacher and BHS FFA advisor. “Our greenhouse has really thrived this year and next year will be even bigger.”

 

The plant increase is due in part to the high tunneling method utilized this school year, Parent said.

 

“It’s a new kind of greenhouse. There’s no heat and plants go directly into the ground,” she said.

 

High tunnels help commercial farmers extend their growing season, thereby improving profitability.

 

Prices are as follows: 10-inch hanging baskets $12, 12-inch hanging baskets $15, metal hanging baskets $20, six-inch pots $5, six-packs $2 and miscellaneous or weak plants $1.

Purchases must be made by credit/debit card or school cash online. Cash will not be accepted. All proceeds will benefit the BHS agriculture program.

 

The greenhouse is located behind the BHS softball field (behind Bridgeport Middle School.) Customers must social distance and only six will be permitted inside the greenhouse at one time.

 

The sale will run 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. both days.